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WHICH WAY DO I TURN? Rally Obedience will already be in existence when you read this latest column. I hope that you have enjoyed reading these columns for the last 7 months about this new and exciting sport. In this month’s column we are going to discuss the right and left turns. The footwork for these turns are similar to the ones found in traditional obedience training. And, even though minor imperfections are not scored in Rally Obedience, a good solid bump on a left turn or a good lag on a right turn will cost you a point or two, depending on the severity of the infraction. To save those points, let’s look at some training techniques. LEFT TURN: To teach your dog to get out of your way when doing a left turn, start by giving them a quick tug back and use the words “get back” as you execute the left turn. Through repetition, you should see that the dog, who is focused on you, will start to jump out of your way as you work the turn. In Rally Obedience, you can use your hands and voice to your full advantage so keying those words to the turn will allow you to keep the dog in perfect heel position. RIGHT TURN: A common problem for dogs with the right turn is a lag. Usually this is caused by either the dog not being focused completely on the handler, or by the handler executing the turn with too long of a stride. Shortening up your steps in a smooth heeling motion, and using the words “get it up” work well to keep the dog with you in proper heel position. In Rally Obedience, you can also use your finger to target where you want the dog to be and of course because you can use your voice, saying “get it up” on the right turn can be used to your advantage when showing and training. PRACTICE: Even if it is 40 degrees below zero outside, you can practice fight turns and left turns in the house with your Golden Retriever. Find about a three foot area and practice multiple turns in a box. Reverse the direction. TURN IN FRONT OF THE SIGN: Remember that in Rally Obedience, the right or left turn sign will be placed so that you do the turn in FRONT of the sign. Passing the sign and turning behind it will result in at least a 1 point deduction in your score! Until next time……… |
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